UPSC Static Quiz – Art and Culture : 28 October 2025

UPSC Static Quiz – Art and Culture : 28 October 2025 We will post 5 questions daily on static topics mentioned in the UPSC civil services preliminary examination syllabus. Each week will focus on a specific topic from the syllabus, such as History of India and Indian National Movement, Indian and World Geography, and more. We are excited to bring you our daily UPSC Static Quiz, designed to help you prepare for the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination. Each day, we will post 5 questions on static topics mentioned in the UPSC syllabus. This week, we are focusing on Indian and World Geography.

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• Question 1 of 5 1. Question Match the columns below: Column I (Puppet Form) Column II (Primary Type) Column III (State of Origin) (A) Kathputli (1) Shadow Puppet (i) Odisha (B) Yampuri (2) String Puppet (ii) Rajasthan (C) Ravanachhaya (3) Rod Puppet (iii) Bihar Select the correct answer code: (a) A-2-ii, B-3-iii, C-1-i (b) A-2-i, B-1-ii, C-3-iii (c) A-3-ii, B-2-iii, C-1-i (d) A-1-iii, B-3-i, C-2-ii Correct Solution: A (A) Kathputli: This is the traditional (2) String Puppet or marionette form from (ii) Rajasthan. The name itself means ‘wooden doll’ (‘Kath’ for wood, ‘putli’ for doll). They are known for their vibrant Rajasthani attire and the absence of legs. So, the correct combination for A is 2-ii. (B) Yampuri: This is a traditional (3) Rod Puppet form from (iii) Bihar. These puppets are distinctive because they are made of wood, are in a single piece, and have no joints, which requires a different manipulation technique compared to other rod puppets. So, the correct combination for B is 3-iii. (C) Ravanachhaya: The name translates to ‘the shadow of Ravana’. This is a form of (1) Shadow Puppet from (i) Odisha. Its puppets are made from uncoloured deer skin and cast opaque shadows, creating a highly dramatic and lyrical effect. So, the correct combination for C is 1-i. Incorrect Solution: A (A) Kathputli: This is the traditional (2) String Puppet or marionette form from (ii) Rajasthan. The name itself means ‘wooden doll’ (‘Kath’ for wood, ‘putli’ for doll). They are known for their vibrant Rajasthani attire and the absence of legs. So, the correct combination for A is 2-ii. (B) Yampuri: This is a traditional (3) Rod Puppet form from (iii) Bihar. These puppets are distinctive because they are made of wood, are in a single piece, and have no joints, which requires a different manipulation technique compared to other rod puppets. So, the correct combination for B is 3-iii. (C) Ravanachhaya: The name translates to ‘the shadow of Ravana’. This is a form of (1) Shadow Puppet from (i) Odisha. Its puppets are made from uncoloured deer skin and cast opaque shadows, creating a highly dramatic and lyrical effect. So, the correct combination for C is 1-i.

#### 1. Question

Match the columns below:

Column I (Puppet Form) | Column II (Primary Type) | Column III (State of Origin)

(A) Kathputli | (1) Shadow Puppet | (i) Odisha

(B) Yampuri | (2) String Puppet | (ii) Rajasthan

Select the correct answer code:

• (a) A-2-ii, B-3-iii, C-1-i

• (b) A-2-i, B-1-ii, C-3-iii

• (c) A-3-ii, B-2-iii, C-1-i

• (d) A-1-iii, B-3-i, C-2-ii

Solution: A

• (A) Kathputli: This is the traditional (2) String Puppet or marionette form from (ii) Rajasthan. The name itself means ‘wooden doll’ (‘Kath’ for wood, ‘putli’ for doll). They are known for their vibrant Rajasthani attire and the absence of legs. So, the correct combination for A is 2-ii.

• (B) Yampuri: This is a traditional (3) Rod Puppet form from (iii) Bihar. These puppets are distinctive because they are made of wood, are in a single piece, and have no joints, which requires a different manipulation technique compared to other rod puppets. So, the correct combination for B is 3-iii.

(C) Ravanachhaya: The name translates to ‘the shadow of Ravana’. This is a form of (1) Shadow Puppet from (i) Odisha. Its puppets are made from uncoloured deer skin and cast opaque shadows, creating a highly dramatic and lyrical effect. So, the correct combination for C is 1-i.

Solution: A

• Question 2 of 5 2. Question With reference to the schools of Hindu philosophy, consider the following statements: The Samkhya school is a dualistic philosophy that posits two ultimate realities: Purusha (consciousness) and Prakriti (matter/nature). The Vaisheshika school is an atomistic philosophy that proposes the universe is composed of eternal, indivisible atoms (paramanu) and classifies all reality into categories (padarthas). The Purva Mimamsa school is primarily concerned with the exegesis of the Vedas, emphasizing the importance of dharma as the performance of Vedic rituals (yajnas). The Yoga school, while accepting the metaphysics of Samkhya, focuses on the practical methods and discipline required to achieve liberation. How many of the above statements are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) Only three (d) All four Correct Solution: D Statement 1 is correct. Samkhya, founded by the sage Kapila, is a fundamentally dualistic (dvaita) school. It asserts that reality is composed of two distinct, eternal, and independent principles: Purusha, which is pure, passive, and multiple consciousness; and Prakriti, which is the single, unconscious, and active principle of matter or nature from which the entire physical universe evolves. Statement 2 is correct. Vaisheshika, founded by the sage Kanada, presents an atomistic and realistic view of the universe. It postulates that all physical objects are reducible to a finite number of eternal and indivisible atoms (paramanu). The school is known for its systematic classification of all existing things into categories (padarthas), such as substance (dravya), quality (guna), and action (karma), to understand the nature of reality. Statement 3 is correct. Purva Mimamsa, founded by the sage Jaimini, is primarily concerned with establishing the authority of the Vedas and providing rules for their interpretation. Its central focus is on dharma, which it defines not as abstract ethics but as the correct performance of the rituals and sacrifices (yajnas) prescribed in the early parts of the Vedas (the Samhitas and Brahmanas). It argues that these rituals are the primary means to attain heaven and merit. Statement 4 is correct. The Yoga school, systematized by Patanjali, is closely allied with Samkhya. It accepts the dualistic metaphysics of Samkhya (the distinction between Purusha and Prakriti). However, its primary contribution is not metaphysical speculation but the prescription of a practical, disciplined path (like the eightfold path or Ashtanga Yoga) for the mind and body to achieve the liberation of Purusha from its entanglement with Prakriti. Incorrect Solution: D Statement 1 is correct. Samkhya, founded by the sage Kapila, is a fundamentally dualistic (dvaita) school. It asserts that reality is composed of two distinct, eternal, and independent principles: Purusha, which is pure, passive, and multiple consciousness; and Prakriti, which is the single, unconscious, and active principle of matter or nature from which the entire physical universe evolves. Statement 2 is correct. Vaisheshika, founded by the sage Kanada, presents an atomistic and realistic view of the universe. It postulates that all physical objects are reducible to a finite number of eternal and indivisible atoms (paramanu). The school is known for its systematic classification of all existing things into categories (padarthas), such as substance (dravya), quality (guna), and action (karma), to understand the nature of reality. Statement 3 is correct. Purva Mimamsa, founded by the sage Jaimini, is primarily concerned with establishing the authority of the Vedas and providing rules for their interpretation. Its central focus is on dharma, which it defines not as abstract ethics but as the correct performance of the rituals and sacrifices (yajnas) prescribed in the early parts of the Vedas (the Samhitas and Brahmanas). It argues that these rituals are the primary means to attain heaven and merit. Statement 4 is correct. The Yoga school, systematized by Patanjali, is closely allied with Samkhya. It accepts the dualistic metaphysics of Samkhya (the distinction between Purusha and Prakriti). However, its primary contribution is not metaphysical speculation but the prescription of a practical, disciplined path (like the eightfold path or Ashtanga Yoga) for the mind and body to achieve the liberation of Purusha from its entanglement with Prakriti.

#### 2. Question

With reference to the schools of Hindu philosophy, consider the following statements:

• The Samkhya school is a dualistic philosophy that posits two ultimate realities: Purusha (consciousness) and Prakriti (matter/nature).

• The Vaisheshika school is an atomistic philosophy that proposes the universe is composed of eternal, indivisible atoms (paramanu) and classifies all reality into categories (padarthas).

• The Purva Mimamsa school is primarily concerned with the exegesis of the Vedas, emphasizing the importance of dharma as the performance of Vedic rituals (yajnas).

• The Yoga school, while accepting the metaphysics of Samkhya, focuses on the practical methods and discipline required to achieve liberation.

How many of the above statements are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) Only three

• (d) All four

Solution: D

• Statement 1 is correct. Samkhya, founded by the sage Kapila, is a fundamentally dualistic (dvaita) school. It asserts that reality is composed of two distinct, eternal, and independent principles: Purusha, which is pure, passive, and multiple consciousness; and Prakriti, which is the single, unconscious, and active principle of matter or nature from which the entire physical universe evolves.

• Statement 2 is correct. Vaisheshika, founded by the sage Kanada, presents an atomistic and realistic view of the universe. It postulates that all physical objects are reducible to a finite number of eternal and indivisible atoms (paramanu). The school is known for its systematic classification of all existing things into categories (padarthas), such as substance (dravya), quality (guna), and action (karma), to understand the nature of reality.

• Statement 3 is correct. Purva Mimamsa, founded by the sage Jaimini, is primarily concerned with establishing the authority of the Vedas and providing rules for their interpretation. Its central focus is on dharma, which it defines not as abstract ethics but as the correct performance of the rituals and sacrifices (yajnas) prescribed in the early parts of the Vedas (the Samhitas and Brahmanas). It argues that these rituals are the primary means to attain heaven and merit.

Statement 4 is correct. The Yoga school, systematized by Patanjali, is closely allied with Samkhya. It accepts the dualistic metaphysics of Samkhya (the distinction between Purusha and Prakriti). However, its primary contribution is not metaphysical speculation but the prescription of a practical, disciplined path (like the eightfold path or Ashtanga Yoga) for the mind and body to achieve the liberation of Purusha from its entanglement with Prakriti.

Solution: D

• Question 3 of 5 3. Question Consider the following statements regarding the Pahari school of miniature painting: The Basohli style is the earliest phase, characterized by the use of bold, vibrant primary colours and a distinctive facial type with large, intense eyes. The Guler style marks a transition towards greater naturalism and delicacy, influenced by the Mughal painting of the later period. The Kangra style, which evolved from the Guler style, is considered the most lyrical and poetic, known for its refined lines and depiction of lush landscapes. How many of the above statements are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Solution: C The Pahari school of miniature painting flourished in the Himalayan hill states between the 17th and 19th centuries, primarily in Jammu, Himachal Pradesh, and Garhwal. It evolved through distinct stylistic phases marked by regional variations, patronage, and external influences. Basohli style — the earliest phase, originating in the late 17th century — is known for its bold and vigorous compositions, use of primary colours like red, yellow, and blue, and a distinctive facial type with large, bulging eyes and strong profiles. The themes often revolved around Bhagavata Purana and Rasamanjari. Guler style, emerging in the early 18th century, marks a transition towards delicacy and naturalism, reflecting the influence of later Mughal painting traditions. It introduced subtler facial expressions, fine shading, and softer colours, moving away from the rigidity of Basohli. Kangra style, which evolved from Guler in the mid-18th century, reached the zenith of Pahari art. It is celebrated for its lyrical grace, romantic themes (especially those based on Jayadeva’s Gita Govinda and Bhagavata Purana), refined lines, sensuous beauty, and lush green landscapes depicting love and devotion. Incorrect Solution: C The Pahari school of miniature painting flourished in the Himalayan hill states between the 17th and 19th centuries, primarily in Jammu, Himachal Pradesh, and Garhwal. It evolved through distinct stylistic phases marked by regional variations, patronage, and external influences. Basohli style — the earliest phase, originating in the late 17th century — is known for its bold and vigorous compositions, use of primary colours like red, yellow, and blue, and a distinctive facial type with large, bulging eyes and strong profiles. The themes often revolved around Bhagavata Purana and Rasamanjari. Guler style, emerging in the early 18th century, marks a transition towards delicacy and naturalism, reflecting the influence of later Mughal painting traditions. It introduced subtler facial expressions, fine shading, and softer colours, moving away from the rigidity of Basohli. Kangra style, which evolved from Guler in the mid-18th century, reached the zenith of Pahari art. It is celebrated for its lyrical grace, romantic themes (especially those based on Jayadeva’s Gita Govinda and Bhagavata Purana), refined lines, sensuous beauty, and lush green landscapes depicting love and devotion.

#### 3. Question

Consider the following statements regarding the Pahari school of miniature painting:

• The Basohli style is the earliest phase, characterized by the use of bold, vibrant primary colours and a distinctive facial type with large, intense eyes.

• The Guler style marks a transition towards greater naturalism and delicacy, influenced by the Mughal painting of the later period.

• The Kangra style, which evolved from the Guler style, is considered the most lyrical and poetic, known for its refined lines and depiction of lush landscapes.

How many of the above statements are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: C

The Pahari school of miniature painting flourished in the Himalayan hill states between the 17th and 19th centuries, primarily in Jammu, Himachal Pradesh, and Garhwal. It evolved through distinct stylistic phases marked by regional variations, patronage, and external influences.

• Basohli style — the earliest phase, originating in the late 17th century — is known for its bold and vigorous compositions, use of primary colours like red, yellow, and blue, and a distinctive facial type with large, bulging eyes and strong profiles. The themes often revolved around Bhagavata Purana and Rasamanjari.

• Guler style, emerging in the early 18th century, marks a transition towards delicacy and naturalism, reflecting the influence of later Mughal painting traditions. It introduced subtler facial expressions, fine shading, and softer colours, moving away from the rigidity of Basohli.

Kangra style, which evolved from Guler in the mid-18th century, reached the zenith of Pahari art. It is celebrated for its lyrical grace, romantic themes (especially those based on Jayadeva’s Gita Govinda and Bhagavata Purana), refined lines, sensuous beauty, and lush green landscapes depicting love and devotion.

Solution: C

• Question 4 of 5 4. Question Consider the following pairs: Feature School of Art 1. Buddha with Hellenistic features and muscular body Mathura 2. Narrative scenes with dynamic figures in white marble Amaravati 3. Indigenous Buddha image with a smiling face and shaven head Gandhara 4. Patronage by the Satavahana dynasty Gandhara How many of the above pairs are correctly matched? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) Only three (d) All four Correct Solution: A Pair 1 is incorrectly matched. The depiction of Buddha with Hellenistic features (like wavy hair), realistic anatomy, and a muscular body is the defining characteristic of the Gandhara School of Art, not the Mathura School. Pair 2 is correctly matched. The Amaravati School is renowned for its mastery of narrative art, depicting complex scenes from Jataka tales and the Buddha’s life. The sculptures are characterized by their dynamism and movement, and the primary medium used was white marble. Pair 3 is incorrectly matched. The depiction of an indigenous Buddha with a fleshy body, a smiling or delighted expression, and a shaven head (or snail-shell curls) is characteristic of the Mathura School of Art, not the Gandhara School. Pair 4 is incorrectly matched. The Gandhara School was primarily patronized by the Kushanas. The Satavahana dynasty was the main patron of the Amaravati School. Incorrect Solution: A Pair 1 is incorrectly matched. The depiction of Buddha with Hellenistic features (like wavy hair), realistic anatomy, and a muscular body is the defining characteristic of the Gandhara School of Art, not the Mathura School. Pair 2 is correctly matched. The Amaravati School is renowned for its mastery of narrative art, depicting complex scenes from Jataka tales and the Buddha’s life. The sculptures are characterized by their dynamism and movement, and the primary medium used was white marble. Pair 3 is incorrectly matched. The depiction of an indigenous Buddha with a fleshy body, a smiling or delighted expression, and a shaven head (or snail-shell curls) is characteristic of the Mathura School of Art, not the Gandhara School. Pair 4 is incorrectly matched. The Gandhara School was primarily patronized by the Kushanas. The Satavahana dynasty was the main patron of the Amaravati School.

#### 4. Question

Consider the following pairs:

Feature | School of Art

1.Buddha with Hellenistic features and muscular body | Mathura
2.Narrative scenes with dynamic figures in white marble | Amaravati
3.Indigenous Buddha image with a smiling face and shaven head | Gandhara
4.Patronage by the Satavahana dynasty | Gandhara

How many of the above pairs are correctly matched?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) Only three

• (d) All four

Solution: A

• Pair 1 is incorrectly matched. The depiction of Buddha with Hellenistic features (like wavy hair), realistic anatomy, and a muscular body is the defining characteristic of the Gandhara School of Art, not the Mathura School.

• Pair 2 is correctly matched. The Amaravati School is renowned for its mastery of narrative art, depicting complex scenes from Jataka tales and the Buddha’s life. The sculptures are characterized by their dynamism and movement, and the primary medium used was white marble.

• Pair 3 is incorrectly matched. The depiction of an indigenous Buddha with a fleshy body, a smiling or delighted expression, and a shaven head (or snail-shell curls) is characteristic of the Mathura School of Art, not the Gandhara School.

Pair 4 is incorrectly matched. The Gandhara School was primarily patronized by the Kushanas. The Satavahana dynasty was the main patron of the Amaravati School.

Solution: A

Pair 4 is incorrectly matched. The Gandhara School was primarily patronized by the Kushanas. The Satavahana dynasty was the main patron of the Amaravati School.

• Question 5 of 5 5. Question With reference to the history of Buddhism in India, consider the following statements: The practice of erecting stupas over corporeal relics was an innovation that originated entirely within the Buddhist tradition. The Mahasanghika school of Buddhism was associated with the prominent monastic centre at Dhanyakataka. The concept of a Bodhisattva, who delays their own enlightenment to help all sentient beings, is a central tenet of the Theravada school. How many of the above statements are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Solution: A Statement 1 is incorrect. While stupas became emblematic of Buddhism, the practice of creating funerary mounds over the remains of important individuals (like kings) pre-dated Buddhism. The Mahaparinibbana Sutta itself suggests that this was an existing custom that was adapted and given new meaning within the Buddhist context. Therefore, it was not an innovation that originated entirely within Buddhism. Statement 2 is correct. Dhanyakataka, located in the modern Andhra Pradesh region, was a flourishing city and a prominent Buddhist centre. Epigraphic and literary evidence confirms that it was particularly associated with the Mahasanghika school of Buddhism. Statement 3 is incorrect. The Bodhisattva ideal is a central and defining tenet of the Mahayana school of Buddhism, not the Theravada school. Theravada Buddhism emphasizes the ideal of the Arhat, an individual who achieves personal enlightenment and liberation (Nirvana). The Mahayana path, in contrast, emphasizes compassion (karuna) and the goal of becoming a Buddha to liberate all beings. Incorrect Solution: A Statement 1 is incorrect. While stupas became emblematic of Buddhism, the practice of creating funerary mounds over the remains of important individuals (like kings) pre-dated Buddhism. The Mahaparinibbana Sutta itself suggests that this was an existing custom that was adapted and given new meaning within the Buddhist context. Therefore, it was not an innovation that originated entirely within Buddhism. Statement 2 is correct. Dhanyakataka, located in the modern Andhra Pradesh region, was a flourishing city and a prominent Buddhist centre. Epigraphic and literary evidence confirms that it was particularly associated with the Mahasanghika school of Buddhism. Statement 3 is incorrect. The Bodhisattva ideal is a central and defining tenet of the Mahayana school of Buddhism, not the Theravada school. Theravada Buddhism emphasizes the ideal of the Arhat, an individual who achieves personal enlightenment and liberation (Nirvana). The Mahayana path, in contrast, emphasizes compassion (karuna) and the goal of becoming a Buddha to liberate all beings.

#### 5. Question

With reference to the history of Buddhism in India, consider the following statements:

• The practice of erecting stupas over corporeal relics was an innovation that originated entirely within the Buddhist tradition.

• The Mahasanghika school of Buddhism was associated with the prominent monastic centre at Dhanyakataka.

• The concept of a Bodhisattva, who delays their own enlightenment to help all sentient beings, is a central tenet of the Theravada school.

How many of the above statements are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: A

• Statement 1 is incorrect. While stupas became emblematic of Buddhism, the practice of creating funerary mounds over the remains of important individuals (like kings) pre-dated Buddhism. The Mahaparinibbana Sutta itself suggests that this was an existing custom that was adapted and given new meaning within the Buddhist context. Therefore, it was not an innovation that originated entirely within Buddhism.

• Statement 2 is correct. Dhanyakataka, located in the modern Andhra Pradesh region, was a flourishing city and a prominent Buddhist centre. Epigraphic and literary evidence confirms that it was particularly associated with the Mahasanghika school of Buddhism.

Statement 3 is incorrect. The Bodhisattva ideal is a central and defining tenet of the Mahayana school of Buddhism, not the Theravada school. Theravada Buddhism emphasizes the ideal of the Arhat, an individual who achieves personal enlightenment and liberation (Nirvana). The Mahayana path, in contrast, emphasizes compassion (karuna) and the goal of becoming a Buddha to liberate all beings.

Solution: A

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